NEW YORK - David Schwarz has been named to the newly created position of Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications for Viacom's fast-rising sports franchise, Bellator. Schwarz will oversee five critical areas of Bellator's development including consumer marketing, communications, social media, ticket sales, and digital. The announcement was made today by Scott Coker, Bellator CEO and President, to whom he will report.

Schwarz, a 19-year veteran of Viacom, most recently served as Senior Vice President, Communications Paramount Network, a position he held since 2011, and has been a proven brand builder for the company. Schwarz played an integral role in the launch of Spike, "The First Network For Men" in 2003 and the rebrand into Paramount Network, the home of premium-quality scripted and non-scripted programming, earlier this year.

"David has a wealth of experience as a brand builder and will play a vital role in Bellator's continued upward trajectory as a thriving global franchise," said Coker.

The new position speaks to Viacom's commitment to growing the emerging sports property. Schwarz's extensive experience is tailor made for the position. During his tenure at Viacom, Schwarz has overseen the network's communications' efforts for the network's sports and sports entertainment properties including Bellator, The Ultimate Fighting Championship, Premier Boxing Champions, the WWE and TNA Wrestling. Prior to the Spike launch, Schwarz oversaw the TNN's communications' efforts for the XFL, Arena Football, and ECW Wrestling.

Prior to joining Viacom, Schwarz served in various Public Relations' positions at USA Network, overseeing the PR responsibilities for the network's coverage of U.S. Open and French Open tennis, The Masters, The Ryder Cup, and PGA Tour events, USA Tuesday Night Fights boxing series, the WWE, and The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Schwarz is a graduate of Syracuse University with a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism and Political Science.

About Bellator:

Bellator is a leading mixed martial arts and kickboxing organization featuring many of the best fighters in the world. Under the direction of veteran fight promoter Scott Coker, Bellator is available to nearly 1 billion people worldwide in over 160 countries. In the United States, Bellator can be seen on Paramount Network, the combat sports television leader. Bellator is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, live event orchestration, fighter development/relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity and commission relations. Bellator is based in Hollywood, Calif. and owned by entertainment giant Viacom, home to the world's premier entertainment brands that connect with audiences through compelling content across television, motion picture, online and mobile platforms.